The description of our Lord as the great Physician is warranted by the fact that He Himself employed that designation illustratively in reference to the whole fact of His mission. Twice over He used it, once when He was referring to a possible criticism of Himself in His native town:
“Doubtless ye will say unto Me this parable, Physician, heal Thyself.”
This was, of course, a passing quotation, and might not be considered proof that we have any right to speak of Him in that way. The other occasion, however, recorded by Matthew, and also by Mark and Luke in almost the same words, does give us that right. Let us read the three occurrences. The narrative in each is the same. Matthew thus gives the record:
“But when He heard it, He said, They that are whole have no need of a physician, but they that are sick. But go ye and learn what this meaneth, I desire mercy, and not sacrifice; for I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.” (Mat 9:12-13)
The record of Mark is a little briefer, but essentially the same thing (Mar 2:17).
“And when Jesus heard it, He saith unto them, They that are whole have no need of a physician, but they that are sick; I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.’
Luke’s report runs thus (Luk 5:31-32):
“And Jesus answering said unto them, They that are whole have no need of a physician; but they that are sick. I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.”
It is perfectly self-evident that these words of our Lord uttered upon this particular occasion made a profound impression. Matthew doubtless heard Him, for it was in his house that they were uttered. Mark quite possibly was present at the time, though it is not said so. Luke, who gathered his information from eye-witnesses, has carefully recorded the utterance, thus further emphasizing the fact that it had made a deep impression upon the minds of those who did hear it.